What will I learn on this module?
Genome scale sequence analysis had transformed our understanding of human disease susceptibility and drug metabolism. In this module you will learn about the methodologies that have led to this understanding and the production of genome databases. You will also study both the sequence and the structural variation in the human genome and those variations associated with disease. The regulatory and epigenetic landscapes including DNA methylation of human genomes will also be studied in detail along with microRNA regulatory networks. Finally, the application of genomics to improve human health, personalised medicine and develop new diagnostics will be explored. You will also debate social, legal and ethical aspects of genetic testing.
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn through a combination of lectures, in silico problem based learning exercises that build into the assessment, directed reading and independent learning. The lectures, supplemented by directed reading, will provide you with an understanding of the topic area and problem based activities will assist you in understanding the process of analysis of sequences and global methylation patterns and will also introduce you to the principles of meta-analysis and systems biology. These will also be combined with the opportunity for group discussions of primary research papers in the topic area.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Support for your learning in this module will include feedback during problem solving sessions by tutors on your data interpretation skills that build into the assessment. In addition, tutors will provide a series of formative online quizzes and data interpretation questions via the University’s electronic learning portal (Blackboard Ultra) after a particular set of lectures. This material will assist you in consolidating your understanding and knowledge in the relevant area. Your tutors will also use the eLearning portal to post the answers to any questions that arise during the course that they feel would benefit the class as a whole. Finally, the eLearning portal (Blackboard Ultra) will also be used by tutors to communicate any important information relating to the course. You will also be encouraged to discuss any areas of weakness with the course tutors as and when necessary. Learning resources including electronic reading lists will be made available to students to support their learning journey.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. You will be able to evaluate the molecular basis of genomic and epigenetic modification on human genetic material and how this can lead to disease.
2. You will gain a specific knowledge and understanding of the techniques underpinning the field and be able to critically evaluate their role in advancing our understanding of disease, developing diagnostic and improving patient health.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. You will be able to apply theoretical knowledge to interpret complex data to assist with medical diagnosis.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
4. You will develop an understanding and appreciate the professional conduct required when working with patient data as well as the wider implication to society.
How will I be assessed?
The assessment in this module will involve two components, a scientific coursework report (1500 words) (60%) and an exam testing knowledge base, data analysis and interpretation skills (2hrs 10 mins)(40%).
The first component will test your ability to critically evaluate primary literature alongside critical analysis of data. (MLOs 1, 2, 4)
The second component will test your specific knowledge and understanding of the topic area and your ability to present, interpret and understand the significance of data. (MLOs 1, 2, 3)
You will be supported in preparing for these assessments via feedback obtained formative exercises delivered via the eLearning Portal (Blackboard Ultra) which will include multi-choice quizzes and problem-based question sets. You will also be supported in your evaluation of primary papers via group discussions in which you will review some key journal articles
Pre-requisite(s)
Level 5 Molecular Biology and Genetics
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
The huge amounts of genomic data that is a consequence of dramatically reduced costs of sequencing has transformed biomedical science and medicine and how we understand disease. It has also enabled huge advances in developing diagnostic techniques and treatments to improve human health. In this module you will learn about the methodologies that have led to this understanding and the application of this discipline to improve human health, develop personalised medicine and novel diagnostics will be explored. You will be taught by tutors who are actively researching in this area and are involved in the application of this knowledge in the clinical setting.
Course info
UCAS Code F115
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years full-time or 4 years full-time with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Applied Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2024 or September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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